MERELBEKE, BELGIUM—UCB films is taking slitting to another level with its new state-of-the-art slitting facility and a Valmet slitter, says the companyl; it's invested €2.6 million ($2.37 million US) into its BOPP production plant at Merelbeke, Ghent.

Part of the company's drive to make the Belgian plant a world-class specialty overwrap-film manufacturing site, the investment reportedly provides the operation a film-slitting capacity of 7,000 tonnes annually. A fully automated Valmet Atlas slitting machine replaces four olders machines, says the manufacturer, and features sophisticated computer-controlled systems that produce consistently high-quality slit rolls and accurate winding.

In addition to the Valmet Atlas slitter, the facility also includes a robotic end-of-the-line packing hall, which the company reports was designed in-house in conjunction with Ceratec BV.

"This new facility," says UCB films manager Chris Hooley, "is one of the most advanced in the world. It will give us both increased production capability and improved efficiency."

According to the co., most of the film converted on the Valmet Atlas machine is for the global tobacco industry, but the manufacturer reports the slitter can handle UCB's "smart" shrink film, Propafilm OS, which is used for overwrapping confectionery, tea, and cosmetic cartons.